At first I was lukewarm to the idea of brining Semin on board. The more I think about it, the more I think it's a chance we should take, especially if we can get him on a 2-3 year deal. There just aren't any forward prospects in our system that will be ready to make the jump up the next few seasons, and we clearly have a large hole in the top 6. Using Tedenby or Clarkson there won't cut it.

At first I was lukewarm to the idea of brining Semin on board. The more I think about it, the more I think it's a chance we should take, especially if we can get him on a 2-3 year deal. There just aren't any forward prospects in our system that will be ready to make the jump up the next few seasons, and we clearly have a large hole in the top 6. Using Tedenby or Clarkson there won't cut it.

Looks good but still not sold on that third line. I hope Tedenby finally works out.

Well then re-signing Sykora I would think isn't out of the question. This would give the Devils a potential third line of:

Sykora-Josefson-Clarkson.

Although I really hope Tedenby works out as well. This is going to be what I assume is a "prove yourself" year for him. In my opinion, what I believe is the most likely scenario is if Tedenby DOESN'T pan out (and only if doesn't) then a trade will be made.

If we had Semin I'd probably want to try him out on a line with Ilya whether with Zajac or Henrique centering. I'd love to see if there could be some chemistry created there.

I see where you're coming from. Personally, I would be afraid that Semin and Kovy's styles are too similar to put them on the same line. You need someone to go into the corners and dig out pucks much like Zach used to. I don't see either of these 2 doing that. Plus, you can't expect the center to be the 1st guy in on the forecheck either. For those reasons, I had them split up with Henrique on the first line to take over for Zach, and Zubrus on the 2nd to forecheck and cycle the hell out of other teams.

Either way, the 1st 2 lines are much more formidible with Semin in the lineup than without him. I just feel that, without someone there to replace some, if not all, of Zach's offensive production, this team will struggle mightily to score more than 1 or 2 goals per game next season.

Theres a poll on NHL.com asking who's going to sign Semin. We're currently 3rd in the poll behind the rest of the field and Detroit. Doesnt mean anything, but guess can't give up hope for his possible signing here yet.

Maybe, but on what terms. Obviously, the offer can't be very good which says a lot more about what they think of him. Gandler is going to have to work harder for this client than he has for anyone else, which is amazing considering the pure talent Semin possesses.

It does sound Devilish though. Maybe since we hardly ever hear about the Devils being involved in a free agent we just assume now when someone says they can't comment that it means he is signing here. Gosh just pick somewhere already alex.

Take that as you will but personally, when I hear "I can't comment" or "no comment" I feel that means that something is brewing...

But perhaps that is just me looking too much into it.

You're looking too much into it. The same "No comment" is the same answer he's given to other bloggers from other teams. The only thing its better than is "The Devils or Semin is not interested", and thats the only thing Im holding onto in respect to Semin coming here. There's been nothing but speculation on who can use him and nothing substantial as to our interest.

Semin has no incentive to sign right now. I wouldnt be surprised if he's not signed till sometime later in August or at least not until Doan is off the market.